Q and A: Infancy Strength Paradigm

[goergen1]

Q and A: Infancy Strength Paradigm

by Bert Sorin

Julie Burnett Wrote:

I am looking for exercise equipment for my 2 year old granddaughter. She
was born with very weak muscles in her arms, legs and hands due to developing in low amniotic fluid and being unable to move in the womb.

I would like to find someone, somewhere who could make an exercise system that would help develop the muscles she has. Her arms/hands are her weakest muscles. Her legs are also weak but she uses them more than her arms so we are seeing greater improvement in them.

Thanks for any info you can provide.

Julie

Bert Sorin Responded:

Julie,

Thanks for writing. I feel that traditional weight training would be a
bit much for here physically and mentally at that young of an age, I
do not think she would be able to conceptualize what she is doing. But.... I think we may have a plan.

My dad and I spoke about it, and we think the best thing for her would be to incorperate the overload principle (increased weight or resistance) into her everyday life and play. This may mean getting her favorite toys and adding small amount of weight to them gradually. This could be in the form of sand, water etc. She will always want to play (manipulate) the toys, so her dexterity, strength and coordination should improve by this gradual increase of needed muscle.

I would highly suggest you look online at www.power-systems.com they
have a bunch of cool things that may help her. It is a sports catalog, but I
think some of the items would be great for her. Such as:

Power Throw Ball set (item S26025)
Power Grip Ball (item S28102)
Adjustable Ankle Weights (item S90575)

These items are colorful and pretty fun to play with, or could be worn
for a few hours per day in order to help the legs develop more rapidly as
well. There may be other things in that catalog that you think that
she may like.

Please keep us posted with her progress. I wish both of you the best.

God Bless your Family. In Strength and Health,

Bert Sorin.
Sorinex Exercise Equipment

[LeeZim]

Julie,
I don't know where you are located though many big cities have children's hospitals that have rehab facilities, and the rehab should be covered by insurance. In addition, my wife and I purchased an exercise bench for my son, who is currently 3, and the weights are made of foam. The bar that came with it is 5 lbs, and you can add "weight" by adding foam plates up to roughly 7-10 lbs. this was great for his motor development, and overall strength. We also enrolled him in a kids karate program that started at the age of 2 and a half, and has also been great for his motor development, listening skills, and balance and coordination.
The hospital I work at is near Philadelphia,PA, and has a great Pediatric Rehab department. I'm pretty sure if you call around, you'll find someone who can help. Good luck!